I'm excited to share this issue of Connections with you because it gets at the heart of what we do - connecting the landscape, the people and the issues of the Yellowstone to Yukon region.

More importantly it shares the stories of the many people - from biologists and artists, to ranchers and soldiers - who have helped Y2Y carry this vision forward and make it a reality. Connecting with the many people and organizations that so passionately embody the spirit of the Yellowstone to Yukon vision is the most rewarding aspect of my job.

After almost 10 years as Executive Director of Y2Y I remain as passionate about and dedicated to this vision as when I started. But like the nature we strive to protect, one season must turn into another, and vitality must be renewed through change. I've decided it is time for me to step down as Executive Director and to move on to other adventures. Please read my letter for details.

This is an excellent time to make this leadership transition. Y2Y is thriving; we have a strong array of successful projects, a great staff team, and are financially sound. Recruitment is now under way and I encourage you to contact Y2Y's Search Committee if you are interested or know of any potential candidates. Click here for the full job posting.

In this issue of Connections, you will meet many inspiring individuals whose personal actions are helping to shape the future of this landscape. Their stories recount incredible personal commitments, sometimes against great odds, to experience or protect the connections that link wildlife, landscapes and communities throughout the Yellowstone to Yukon region.

Leading this organization and the people that make it a success has been a career highlight for me. I'd like to express my sincere gratitude for all your support, and to the many individuals, like those mentioned here, who have contributed to Y2Y over the years.

Karsten Heuer Walking Y2Y

 

What is connectivity? There have been many who have tried to explain the concept but the most persuasive have and still are the ones who walk the talk.     

  

Experience their adventure...

Dwayne Harty painting at the gates of Nahanni National Park

 

This art show is a vehicle for us to understand the importance of the Y2Y corridor, the foresight of the people who over 100 years ago decided to protect it and what we can do now to preserve it...      

  

Learn more...

Some people call them crazy, but the LeBrie family believes they are enacting stewardship ethics.

How do you raise people's awareness so that their daily decisions work in harmony with the natural systems of the Earth; so that they weigh not only their own needs but those of future generations? How do you create great stewards?

 

 

A Tribute
Remembering a True Canadian Hero
Basil Seaton: Soldier, Environmentalist, Husband 

Basil Seaton

 

On Friday, May 11th - his 93rd birthday - Basil Seaton left this world as he entered it - quietly. Fortunately for all Canadians, his moments in between were anything but quiet. He was a force to be reckoned with and showed us that one must never give up.             

Meet Basil...

Lake O'Hara's Alpine Route, Yoho National Park, BC

 

We've collected a list of our favorite hikes throughout the Y2Y region but we'd also like to hear about yours! Send us your hike of choice and enter for a chance to win Karsten Heuer's book Walking the Big Wild.  

 

Check out our hikes...